2020 Jean-Pierre Robinot Les Années Folles

WINEMAKER: Jean-Pierre Robinot
REGION: Loire Valley, FR
VARIETAL: Chenin Blanc, Pineau d'Aunis
VITICULTURE: Organic/Biodynamic

This lovely Petillant Naturel wine is made from two of the favourite grape varieties of the central Loire region around the city of Tours, namely Chenin Blanc (60%) and Pineau d’Aunis (40%) for this vintage. The grapes are sourced from vineyards in the Jasnieres appellation but they do not seek endorsement from the appellation committee, preferring to label the wine as Vin de France. This wine is very delicious and has almost an onion skin colour from the Pineau d’Aunis grapes. The alcohol content is a very pleasant 11%. However this doesn’t detract from the trademark complexity and depth of flavour of wines produced by Jean-Pierre. It has a fine bead and lasts for a long time on the back palate. A very complex pet nat!

Not many winemakers have a cult following much like Robinot. After falling in love with wine at 22 years of age over a bottle of 1964 Cheval Blanc, Jean-Pierre soon opened one of Paris' first natural wine bars (L’Ange Vin), followed by creating one of France's most influential wine magazines (Le Rouge et le Blanc). Eventually leaving Paris to buy a vineyard with his wife Noella, the wines of Robinot are some of the most highly sought after in the world. Long, natural ferments, extended élevage, both sometimes years, always without additions of any kind. Super limited.